If you’re making snowballs or other shaved-ice treats at home, a large ice block can give you a useful supply of ice to process. The products below are reusable molds, not electric ice shavers: you’ll still need a compatible tool to shave or crush the ice, and you should check that the block’s size fits it. We compared the five options by their stated capacity, mold design, and flexibility for other cooling jobs.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Capacity or pack details | Notable feature |
|---|---|---|
| DOGITY Extra Large Ice Block Molds | Four molds; listed as 32 lb total | Reusable silicone molds for large ice blocks |
| HUIRUSO Extra Large Ice Block Mold | Four molds; description lists up to 2.2 lb per mold | Reinforced design and easy-release instructions |
| Haldane 5-Piece Ice Block Mold Set | Five molds; listed as 15 lb total | Reinforced corners and dishwasher-cleaning claim |
| MT.BAY 12-Pound Ice Block Form | One block, listed at up to 12 lb | Metal-reinforced rim and stated block dimensions |
| Alaskey Giant Ice Block Mold | Two-pack; listed as 12 lb | Stackable design for freezer storage |
Our Picks: Best Block Ice Maker For Snowballs reviews
1. DOGITY Extra Large Ice Block Molds: Best for Making Several Blocks
This four-mold silicone set is listed as making 32 pounds of ice in total, with the product description referring to individual 8-pound blocks. That’s a substantial amount of ice to have ready for a gathering or repeated batches of shaved ice, provided your freezer has enough room for the molds.
The molds are made from food-safe silicone, according to the product details, and are designed for reuse. Their large size may be helpful if your ice shaver accepts blocks of that scale. Before buying, check your shaver’s maximum block dimensions: the listing does not give the mold measurements, so capacity alone cannot confirm a fit.
These molds are also positioned for coolers, camping, and cold tubs. That versatility is useful if you want more than a dedicated snowball-making supply. The main trade-off is the space and time involved: the description recommends freezing for 12 to 24 hours, and four large molds take up more freezer room than a standard ice tray.
Pros:
- Four reusable molds provide multiple blocks
- Listed as 32 pounds of total ice capacity
- Food-safe silicone, according to the product description
- Can also be used for coolers and other chilling needs
Cons:
- Mold dimensions are not provided in the supplied details
- Large blocks need significant freezer space and advance planning
Verdict: Choose DOGITY if you want to make several large blocks at once and have room to freeze them, but confirm that your ice shaver can handle the mold’s block size.
2. HUIRUSO Four-Pack: Best for Smaller Individual Blocks
HUIRUSO’s four-piece set is described as making blocks of up to 2.2 pounds each. Compared with the larger blocks in this roundup, smaller portions may be easier to handle and may suit an ice shaver that cannot accept a very large block. You’ll still need to compare the mold’s stated measurements—7.5 by 4.9 inches and 3 inches tall—with your machine’s opening.
The description calls out a reinforced design intended to help the molds hold their shape, along with instructions to let the ice sit for five to ten minutes before releasing it. Those steps may make demolding more manageable, though the listing does not promise a particular result with every freezer or handling method.
This set is also described for coolers, camping, and other cold-storage uses. The individual blocks are smaller than the 8-pound blocks listed for DOGITY, so you may need to freeze or use more of them to build up a large supply. The product details suggest about 24 hours of freezing time.
Pros:
- Four molds let you prepare multiple portions
- Stated dimensions help with checking shaver compatibility
- Reinforced design is intended to support shape retention
- Useful for coolers and outdoor trips as well as shaved ice
Cons:
- Each block is smaller than several other options here
- Freezing time is listed at about 24 hours
Verdict: HUIRUSO is a practical option if you prefer multiple, more manageable blocks, especially when the stated dimensions match your ice shaver.
3. Haldane Five-Piece Set: Best for Multiple Batches
Haldane’s set includes five silicone molds and is listed as making 15 pounds of ice in total. That makes it a useful middle ground for anyone who wants several blocks available but does not need the biggest single block in this group. The product description says the mold is thickened, with reinforced corners to help maintain a regular shape.
The listing says to freeze the molds for about 12 hours and wait 30 seconds after removing them from the freezer before demolding. It also states that the molds are dishwasher-safe. For snowballs, the five-block format can help you keep a reserve ready, but you’ll need to shave or process each block with a separate compatible tool.
Haldane also describes the molds for coolers, chilled drinks, and other uses. The trade-off is that the total capacity is spread across five molds, and the product details do not provide their dimensions. Check the shape and size of the ice your shaver accepts before choosing this set.
Pros:
- Five molds provide several separate blocks
- Listed total capacity is 15 pounds
- Reinforced corners are designed to help blocks keep their shape
- Product description states that the molds are dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Mold dimensions are not included in the supplied details
- Five molds require freezer space and advance preparation
Verdict: Pick Haldane if you value having several blocks ready and want a moderate total capacity, but verify the mold size against your shaver first.
4. MT.BAY 12-Pound Form: Best for One Large Ice Block
This MT.BAY form is designed to make one large block, listed at up to 12 pounds and measuring 11 by 7 by 5 inches. Those measurements are especially useful when checking whether an ice shaver can accept the block. A large block can also serve general cooler and outdoor chilling needs, according to the product description.
The mold is made from food-grade silicone and has a metal-reinforced rim intended to improve stability during freezing and release. The instructions call for leaving about half an inch of space at the top, freezing for roughly 24 hours, then waiting five to ten minutes before removing the ice. Following that guidance matters because water expands as it freezes.
Unlike the multi-mold sets, this option focuses on a single large block. That can simplify the setup if your shaver works with this size, but it offers less flexibility if you want several separate portions. The product details also do not describe the block as producing snowballs on its own; you’ll need a separate ice-shaving tool.
Pros:
- Provides specific block dimensions for compatibility checks
- Designed for a single block of up to 12 pounds
- Metal-reinforced rim is intended to add stability
- Reusable and described as dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Only one mold is included
- Requires freezer space for a large block and about 24 hours to freeze
Verdict: MT.BAY is a strong choice if your shaver accepts an 11-by-7-by-5-inch block and you prefer one large supply of ice over several smaller blocks.
5. Alaskey Stackable Two-Pack: Best for Saving Freezer Space
Alaskey’s product is described as an ultra-thick silicone mold set with a stackable design. Stacking can be helpful when you want to make multiple blocks without spreading molds across the freezer, though you’ll still need a level surface and enough clearance for the molds and blocks.
The listing identifies it as a 12-pound, two-pack but does not make clear in the supplied details whether that capacity refers to each mold or the set. Check the product page for the capacity breakdown and mold dimensions before buying, especially if you’re matching the blocks to an ice shaver. The description also highlights cooler, camping, and fishing uses.
For snowballs, the main appeal is reusable block production rather than any built-in shaving function. The thicker silicone construction is presented as a durability feature, but the available specifications do not state a freezing time or provide measurements. That makes this a less straightforward choice than MT.BAY if precise size matching is important.
Pros:
- Two molds are included
- Stackable design is intended to make freezer storage more efficient
- Thick silicone construction is designed for repeated use
- Can also be used for cooler and outdoor chilling needs
Cons:
- Supplied details do not clarify how the 12-pound capacity is divided
- Mold dimensions and freezing time are not provided
Verdict: Consider Alaskey if stackable storage and a two-mold set matter most, but confirm the capacity and dimensions before relying on it for a particular ice shaver.
How to Choose a Block Ice Maker for Snowballs
Check Whether You Need a Mold or a Shaver
Every product here is an ice mold. None of the supplied product details describe a machine that shaves or shapes the ice into snowballs. If you want fine, scoopable ice, plan on using a separate ice shaver or compatible tool. A mold gives you the block; the shaver determines the finished texture.
Match the Block to Your Ice Shaver
Check the shaver’s instructions for the largest block it can accept, then compare those limits with the mold’s dimensions. MT.BAY gives specific measurements of 11 by 7 by 5 inches, and HUIRUSO lists a mold size of 7.5 by 4.9 by 3 inches. For products without dimensions in the supplied details, confirm the measurements before ordering rather than guessing from the stated weight.
Choose Capacity for Your Batch Size
A larger block can mean more ice in one piece, while a multi-mold set gives you separate blocks to use or store. Consider how many snowballs you plan to make and how much ice your freezer can hold. Also check how the seller defines total capacity: a figure may refer to a whole set or to an individual mold.
Allow Time and Space for Freezing
Large molds take planning. The supplied product descriptions recommend freezing times that range from about 12 hours to about 24 hours. Leave room for the molds to sit level, and follow the maker’s fill instructions. MT.BAY specifically advises leaving space at the top for water expansion.
Consider Release and Cleanup
Flexible silicone is used across these products, and some listings describe reinforced edges or corners to help with stability and release. Follow the maker’s demolding instructions; some recommend waiting briefly after removing the mold from the freezer. If cleanup convenience matters, look for an explicit dishwasher-safe statement rather than assuming every silicone mold can go in the dishwasher.
Think About Other Uses
These molds are also described for coolers, camping, fishing, and other cooling tasks. If you plan to use a mold for food or drinks, follow the product’s care instructions and keep the mold clean between uses. A versatile mold may be useful year-round, but for snowballs, shaver compatibility should remain your first check.
FAQs
Can these molds make snowballs by themselves?
No. They freeze water into blocks. You’ll need a separate compatible ice shaver or other tool to turn the ice into the texture you want.
Are block ice molds the same as snowball makers?
No. A block ice mold prepares the ice, while a snowball-making setup also needs a way to shave or process it. Check that the finished ice texture works for your recipe and serving style.
How long do these molds take to freeze?
The supplied descriptions recommend roughly 12 to 24 hours, depending on the product. Actual freezing time can vary, so allow extra time if you need the ice for a specific occasion.
Which mold is easiest to match with an ice shaver?
MT.BAY and HUIRUSO provide dimensions in the supplied details, making them easier to compare with a machine’s stated limits. Always compare all relevant dimensions, not just the block’s weight.
Should I buy one large mold or a multi-pack?
One large mold may suit a shaver designed for a large block. A multi-pack provides separate blocks and can help you prepare multiple portions. Your freezer space, planned batch size, and shaver capacity should guide the choice.
Can I use these molds for coolers too?
The supplied product descriptions list cooler or outdoor chilling as possible uses for these molds. Follow each product’s care directions and use the blocks in a way that suits your cooler and its contents.
Final Recommendation
For most shoppers, the best starting point is the mold that fits their ice shaver and freezer—not simply the one with the largest capacity. DOGITY offers multiple large blocks, HUIRUSO provides stated dimensions for smaller blocks, and MT.BAY gives clear measurements for one large block. Whichever you choose, remember that these are molds rather than complete snowball makers, so you’ll need a separate tool to shave the ice.